Simiyu named Kenya Sevens coach

Former skipper Innocent “Namcos” Simiyu is the new Kenya Sevens rugby head coach.

The 33-year-old Impala centre, who captained Kenya Sevens team between 2006 and 2008 and the Kenyan 15s side in 2008 to 2011, was named on Monday at a well-attended press conference at the RFUEA grounds.

Simiyu topped during the interviews that were held two weeks ago, beating former Kenya Sevens deputy coaches Charles Cardiovillis and Paul Murunga as well as Fijian Sailosi Naiteqe in that order.

Former Kenya Sevens coach Benjamin Ayimba also attended the interviews but failed to make the top five.

Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Richard Omwela said that they have handed Simiyu a two year contract adding that they will give him a free hand to select his deputy.

Omwela disclosed that they deferred naming the head coach from Thursday last week after former New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens turned down their offer at the last minute, opting to go to Samoa.

“We were in talks with Tietjens for several weeks up until Saturday morning but it became clear that for certain reasons,” said Omwela. “Tietjens eventually told us that he has made a commitment to go with Samoa.”

Omwela said Tiejens’ wife Julia and Samoan Prime Minister Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi were directly involved hence elbowing them out.

“Tietjens wife thought that Kenya was a bit far and she wanted him closer home. We respect that and wish him well,” explained Omwela. “We are happy he settled for Samoa and let us meet in the pitch I guess.”

Simiyu, who comes from a rugby playing family, was to deputise Tietjens, who was unveiled as Manu Samoa Sevens head coach last Friday. Ian Gibbons from United Kingdom was picked as strength and conditioning coach.

Eric Ogweno is the new team manager while Lameck Bogonko remains as team’s physiotherapist.

Omwela called on the players who will be selected to accord Simiyu respect and the support he needs.

“Yes, he has little experience in terms of coaching but age factor does not count here. He has enough experience as Kenya Sevens and Kenya 15s captain,” Omwela said.

“In fact his youthful nature is an asset for him since he will run with the tem along.”

Simiyu sustained a nasty knee injury during the 2011 Bamburi Series that almost ended his playing career.

However, Simiyu waylaid all the odds to make a return to the pitch in 2014 to coach and play for Impala winning the Comeback Award during the Sports Personality of the Year (Soya) Gala.

Simiyu made his return for Kenya 15s at the Africa Cup Division 1A this year before captaining Kenya “A” against Hong Kong in August.